I couldn't focus on a single thing all day.
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Not even in class, which I knew I would pay for down the road.
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Luckily, I was still able to copy Zion's notes so I had the necessary material-I just couldn't zone in on one thing our professor said.
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Once I was out of class, my thoughts were still chaotic—thinking about what I would pack or how this appointment would go.
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What do I pack?
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That's the question that ran through my head when I finally made it home, standing in my closet.
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I have a little over two hours to figure it the fuck out and also get ready.
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And not just my normal ready.
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I needed to take an everything shower, which meant shaving, exfoliating, and properly moisturizing after.
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Clearly, an overnight bag means that right?
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Something is going to happen.
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Even if it doesn't I still need to be prepared.
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I wonder what her house looks like...
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I'm thinking more of a sleek modern look that mirrors her office.
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She seems like the type to have a really organized house, with a designated place for every little thing.
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Even the idea of her house intimidates me, especially since I'm so used to seeing her in the office or in public.
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I let out a deep sigh, glancing around my closet as I reached for a pair of black leggings and a vintage cheetah sweatshirt.
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This would be good for tomorrow's outfit when I'm leaving— especially since I want to be more comfortable.
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For pajamas, I opted for something more than my usual t-shirt, grabbing a silky black camisole and matching shorts.
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I have these pajamas in numerous colors-mostly because I'm the type to buy different colors in the things I really like.
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Next, I packed the usual toiletries, which I normally keep on hand for trips so I didn't have to worry about showering and stuff before packing it away.
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I picked out my usual seamless underwear, throwing in something lacy just in case before grabbing my phone charger and shoes.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAimJubBk42z
Then my overnight bag was ready, leaving me to focus on my everything shower.
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I decided to do a wash day too, detangling my hair and coating my frizzy strands in my usual hair mask.
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While the mask sat in my hair, I dry-brushed all over my body and washed my face, turning the shower onto the hottest setting.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAa7kFRxLYSS
I let the mask sit in my hair a little longer as I focused on exfoliating my body even more with my usual vanilla scrub.
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Then I focused on shaving-from my legs to my underarms, even my bikini area to ensure every inch of me was smooth.
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I rinsed my hair out next, washing it with my favorite shampoo and conditioner before washing my body with scentless soap.
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The bathroom was majorly foggy when I finished, stepping out of my glass shower to carefully dry off.
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I applied my usual vanilla body oil first before using my African shea butter to top it off.
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Then I focused on my wet curls, running my usual products through them before brushing them out in sections.
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I used a blow dryer to diffuse them, which only took thirty minutes before my hair was fully dry.
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Once I shook my curls out, I did my skincare and got dressed in something casual, hoping it would seem like I didn't put that much effort in.
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Especially since I wasn't wearing any makeup.
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I wore a light grey zip-up jacket and matching flare leggings, sliding on a pair of my Nikes to match.
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I also opted for roll-on fragrance oil instead of my usual perfume.
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The only thing high maintenance about my look was my hair, but only if you knew the effort that went into a full wash day.
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By the time I was ready with my bag by the door, I still had thirty minutes to spare, allowing me time to chill on the couch and look at any new notifications.
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Zion and Sid had sent a few TikToks in our group chat and Kai seemed to have texted me too.
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Kai: i got a notification that you stopped sharing your location, is everything ok?
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I pursed my lips at her text, trying to think of the best excuse since I definitely couldn't mention Nine.
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I shook my head when a slow smile grew on my lips, still processing that I could casually call her Nine now.
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But that's beside the point.
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Kai—I need to think of an excuse.
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Or maybe a deflection.
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I let out a deep sigh, typing against my phone screen as I put together a decent text.
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Me: yes i'm all good. how's your day been?
I nodded contently at the text as I sent it, watching it deliver through.
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The typing bubbles appeared immediately, indicating Kai was already typing a response.
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Kai: pretty good wbu?
Kai: did you want to hang out tonight?
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I remained silent as I read her text, somehow having to think of yet another excuse.
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Fuck.
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I quickly began typing again, replying with an excuse rather than a deflection this time.
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Me: i have a lot of online work to catch up on. wanna do tomorrow?
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I watched my text deliver through upon sending it, noticing the typing bubbles pop up yet again on Kai's end.
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Kai: yesss maybe we could do dinner
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I smiled at her text, typing my response back to her.
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Me: perfect, just let me know what you want and i'll get it for us
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Once the text delivered through, I navigated to the group chat with Zion and Sid, watching the TikToks they sent me and replying in the chat to each video.
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Then I somehow ended up on TikTok, scrolling until a notification popped up at the top of my screen.
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Doc.
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I sat up from my couch, at the notification, immediately clicking on it to see what she said.
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Doc: Here.
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I stood up from my couch, already feeling excited knots tie in my lower stomach as I walked over to the door where my Coach duffle bag awaited me.
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I let out a deep breath as I picked up my keys from the table and grabbed my duffle bag.
10Please respect copyright.PENANATcv7NhRbau
Then I exited my apartment, heading down the familiar hallway to the elevators.
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Somehow my nerves managed to grow worse upon getting on one of the elevators, riding it down to the parking garage as my heart pounded heavily in my ears.
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I practically held my breath when the shiny doors finally slid open, stepping off the elevator and glancing around the quiet parking garage.
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I spotted her black Bentley immediately, walking over toward it as the driver's door smoothly opened.
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Her brown eyes were on me as she slid out of the car to her tall height-meeting me halfway to take the bag from my hand.
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She was still in her white button-down and black dress pants from earlier, her stilettos nearly shining under the fluorescent lights.
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Her brown hair was down too with her curtain bangs framing her face, still as neat as ever.
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"Thanks," I said as she carried my bag, smiling as I walked toward the passenger side with her.
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"You're welcome," I heard her say, opening the backseat door and carefully setting my bag in the seat.
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As she did that, I opened the passenger side door, sliding into the soft leather seat.
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Nine gently closed my door before I could —also closing the back door as well.
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I watched her round the car as I buckled my seatbelt, trying my best to get comfortable.
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But it felt nearly impossible with how fucking nervous I felt.
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And my nerves only got fucking worse when she slid into the driver's seat beside me, making me draw in a deep breath.
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"How was your day?" she spoke first, buckling her seatbelt with a soft click.
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"Pretty good," I said, watching as she put the car into drive and slowly pulled out of the parking spot she previously reversed onto.
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"Elaborate," Nine calmly said, her stare focused ahead as she navigated through the parking garage.
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"Uh, well class was good," I went to say, not really having a lot of details other than that to spare.
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"What did you learn?" she asked me, making me purse my lips awkwardly.
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Of course the one day I don't listen.
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"Do you really want to talk about school right now?" I asked her with a growing smile, trying to deflect away from the topic.
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"Yes, River" Nine calmly said, briefly glancing over to me, "I want to know how you spend your day."
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I felt my face burn up at her genuine words, fighting my smile that wanted to grow wider at the idea of her caring about something as small as my day.
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"Well, we're learning how to design and build software systems," I briefly explained as she flicked on her signal to turn out of the parking garage.
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"Go on," she murmured, her focus pinpointed ahead at the crowded downtown roads.
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I nodded hesitantly, "Uh right now, it's all about designing software that can handle a lot of users or data without crashing, so it's important to plan out the structure first," I tried my best to explain to her, recalling what we discussed in class last week rather than today since I didn't listen that well, "We have to figure out how different parts go together—kind of like building it piece by piece. After that, we run tests and continue making different tweaks."
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Nine's brown eyes briefly met mine, humming softly at my words, "Smart girl" she murmured, glancing back to the busy road.
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My face burned up at her praise, pursing my lips as I tried my best to fight my smile.
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"How are classes so far?" Nine asked me, continuing to drive forward past the green light, "Do you feel overwhelmed?"
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I shook my head, "Not really, I got ahead of all my online work for this semester," I briefly explained, relaxing against the leather seat with a content sigh.
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"Good, River." she said, her words filled with praise yet again, "How was the rest of your day?"
10Please respect copyright.PENANAEFCUiYCZxx
I shrugged, "I didn't really do much except for pack and stuff," I admitted, staring forward at the packed roads, "I did have breakfast with Zion and Sid after I left your office this morning," I added, recalling more of this morning.
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"What did you eat?" Nine asked me, flicking her signal on to merge into the left lane.
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"Just pancakes," I murmured, unconsciously glancing over to eye her side profile.
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Her jawline was sharp, her skin glowing, and her plump lips sticking out just perfectly.
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"And your other meals?" she said, driving past another green light, "What else have you eaten today?"
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I shrugged, "Just a smoothie and a chicken wrap from the cafe by campus. I also had a yogurt when I got home," I briefly told her, thinking of everything I had today.
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"Good, and you drank water?" she asked me, making me purse my lips into an amused smile.
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"Yeah, a couple of bottles," I murmured, tilting my head at her, "Did you want me to write this stuff in my notes and text it to you?" I sarcastically asked her.
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Nine hummed, "If you're offering—"
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"I wasn't being serious," I quickly cut her short with a joking scoff.
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Her lips twitched up slightly, "I know," she admitted in a soft murmur, briefly glancing over to meet my stare when we reached a red light, "I simply like the idea of that."
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I felt my face grow warm from her open stare, especially with her eyes trailing my face.
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"Of course you do," I mumbled, shaking my head as I glanced away from her.
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Even still, her stare burned into the side of my face, not bothering to look away from me.
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"Anything else eventful?" Nine asked me.
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I shrugged, "Not really," I sighed.
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Until I recalled the text I got just a few minutes ago.
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I suddenly glanced back to her, "Well, Kai ended up texting me, asking if I was okay since I stopped sharing my location," I added.
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Nine raised a brow at my words, "And how did that go?" she asked, glancing back forward when the light flickered green.
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"Pretty good, I just said I was good and deflected onto the topic about her day," I briefly explained as she slowly drove forward, "We're doing dinner tomorrow since I couldn't hang out today."
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"You're not available tomorrow evening" she corrected me, making my brows furrow.
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"Yes, I am?" I said, my words coming out almost as a question.
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Because now I was wondering if I wasn't available?
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"Now you aren't," she calmly said, her stare still focused ahead, "We have dinner plans."
10Please respect copyright.PENANAkp9yIuUdFH
I scoffed, "You can't do that—I already told her we could do dinner, Nine." I said, narrowing my eyes at her even if she was looking at the road.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAg5lWSvLjfc
"You should go ahead and text her then" Nine suggested, not even giving me a choice in the matter.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAhYLXjE0rMl
I shook my head, even if I was slightly more excited to have dinner with Nine rather than Kai.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAJevBgJhlpU
But that's not the point.
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Nine is just now informing me of these sudden plans.
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"We can just do something after" I said, not wanting to give in to her so easily.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAJiA22GKGgm
I also already told Kai we could —what excuse could I possibly use now?
10Please respect copyright.PENANAYOsyCSOZXN
"Is that what I said, River?" she asked me, briefly glancing at me, "We're having dinner tomorrow.
Reschedule your plans."
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I rolled my eyes, "Whatever" I sighed, snatching my phone from my lap to unlock it.
10Please respect copyright.PENANATzOOcpC9KZ
"Fix your attitude or I can pull over and fix it for you" she corrected, making my jaw tighten.
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Mostly from the ache that settled between my legs at her demanding words.
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It was annoyingly attractive.
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Even if she just irritated me with last-minute plans.
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"Unfortunately, I was born with this attitude" I purposely mumbled, typing up a text to Kai about rescheduling for another day, "So it's not going anywhere."
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I heard her hum softly, "We'll see once I'm done with you" she casually murmured, not affected by my words in the slightest.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAOu3hCz1K6B
I rolled my eyes even if she wasn't looking at me, setting my phone back down in my lap as I focused forward.
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It barely took us a few more minutes before we were riding through a parking garage—where she smoothly reversed the car into one of the empty spaces.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAVDMPrl5PTC
Soon we were unbuckling our seatbelts and sliding out of the parked car as she briefly locked it.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAFtQN1Azxte
Her heels clicked sharply with each step, walking beside me toward the elevators.
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She pressed the button before I got a chance, motioning me on first when one of the elevators dinged open.
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I let out a deep exhale as I stepped on, watching her click the fourteenth level as the doors slowly slid closed.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAjrJfx6HWsJ
Then her attention was focused on me, taking a step closer—And pressing her hand to my mid-back.
10Please respect copyright.PENANA2VLQ0s2mFn
"How do you feel?"
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Her voice was lowered between us, her eyes locked with mine, and barely an inch of space between us.
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I could smell her familiar sweet scent mixed with her cologne, making my thoughts grow fuzzy.
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"Good" I determined, knowing this shouldn't be too bad.
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It's just a standard check-up, nothing big.
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It just feels weird with her accompanying me.
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"Good" she determined, tracing her fingertips up my covered spine as she leaned closer.
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And drew in a deep breath.
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It made my face burn up, suddenly unable to stop my thighs from pressing tightly together at her openly smelling me.
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"You smell incredible, River." she whispered softly, now tracing her fingertips back down my spine.
10Please respect copyright.PENANA536vJ6gfAH
I breathlessly hum, "Thank you" I forced out, my voice lowered between us as I tried to ignore the heat burning between us.
10Please respect copyright.PENANA5snQgqwx2K
It felt like the best compliment, especially coming from her.
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I think I'll use fragrance oils from here on out now.
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"You're welcome" she said as the elevator dinged open.
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But Nine didn't step back—nor remove her hand that rested at my lower back.
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She only guided me off of the elevator into the empty sterile lobby.
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The floors were sleek white marble with high-end cushioned grey chairs and high ceilings.
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It looked like one of those private practices my mother would take me to.
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I glanced around, noticing there wasn't a single person in sight.
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Not even a receptionist behind the glass where the front desk was.
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I glanced over when the nearby door opened, revealing an older woman with dark hair pinned back in a low bun, wearing a white coat and a stethoscope around her neck.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAOJ2u4abLjb
"Nine" she smiled as she approached Nine beside me, leaning in to give her a side hug.
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Even as Nine briefly hugged her back, her hand didn't fall away from my back—still somehow remaining present with me.
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"I appreciate you staying overtime" Nine said as they pulled away, which easily explained the empty lobby.
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The practice is closed.
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"Of course" the woman didn't hesitate to say, her brown eyes flickering over to me, "I'm Dr. Rashad," she briefly introduced herself.
10Please respect copyright.PENANANrMd5mcl3D
"River" I said with my usual smile, holding my hand out for her.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAsVTeMXcfD3
She met me halfway, briefly shaking my hand as Nine watched our interaction, "It's nice to meet you," she said as our hands fell away, "Are you ready to get started?"
10Please respect copyright.PENANAGEz7RD4PfP
"Yes," I murmured, earning a nod from her as she motioned us to follow along.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAXML1kLAtrL
Dr. Rashad opened the door she previously came from, walking through as Nine pressed her hand against the open door and held it open for me to walk through.
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We passed a few doors as we walked down the long hallway, following Dr. Rashad into the closest exam room.
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There was already a clipboard waiting on the cushioned exam chair lined with a white paper sheet.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAA2qyopTjN1
"I already prepared the standard paperwork for you to fill out so we have you on file," Dr. Rashad explained, motioning to the clipboard on the exam chair.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAHdaxA5lKHZ
"Okay..." I trailed off with furrowed brows, "Did you need a card on file—or my health insurance provider?" I asked, feeling like we skipped a bunch of steps.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAjCCy7tNFOE
"I've already taken care of that, River" Nine spoke before Dr. Rashad could.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAk1BLwGvJuW
My attention diverted to her as she stood beside me, "You did?" I asked, growing more confused.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAf8VsJvA4tG
Nine didn't answer me immediately, she only glanced over to Dr. Rashad.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAfKJ9L7ALj8
Who suddenly nodded to herself, "I'll give you both a moment," she offered, backing away from us to exit the exam room.
10Please respect copyright.PENANA2rRt0BPnGh
As soon as the door gently fell closed, Nine's attention was back on me, her brown eyes locking with mine.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAq8V60JTK6S
"I handle everything for you, River" she calmly said, reminding me of her words from earlier.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAHc56NlhJfj
I nodded immediately, "Yeah, I just didn't expect you to take care of this kind of stuff as well," I admitted, sitting on the cushioned chair as the paper crinkled slightly.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAEAM1qyBYPE
Nine only hummed in acknowledgment, "Now you know," she murmured, watching carefully as I picked up the clipboard, "Let me know if you have any questions."
10Please respect copyright.PENANAKzT6m0p2QS
I nodded, grabbing the pen from under the clipboard handle as I focused on the first page.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAvtGPXxUm3t
Nine backed away from me, giving me space as she sat in the cushioned chair off to the side.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAF4ahq1MAVI
Yet somehow she still managed to distract me, sitting with her long leg crossed over the other.
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She even had the nerve to calmly roll up her sleeves, It was probably one of the most attractive things she could do at a moment like this.
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"Do you mind?" I suddenly asked, my gaze snapping over to her.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAdlxt8t8jJV
Nine met my stare as she halted her actions, "Mind what, River?" she asked, tilting her head at me.
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"Your sleeves—rolling them up like that," I mumbled, glancing away from her when my face burned up at my insane words.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAWtyP4dmoii
I don't know why something so small affects me to this degree.
10Please respect copyright.PENANABNegstzLGB
"It's distracting me," I clarified with hopes of sounding somewhat normal, focusing back on the last page I managed to make it to.
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Nine didn't say anything else.
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She also didn't move an inch, allowing me to truly focus again.
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Even if I could feel her amusement from my odd request.
10Please respect copyright.PENANAt7dn4weMhV
Luckily, I was able to finish the rest of the paperwork just as Dr. Rashad checked in a few moments later.
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Then I was handed a gown to change into as Nine stepped out of the room with her to give me privacy.
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My nerves grew worse as I slid my leggings and underwear off, unzipping my jacket to take off as well.
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I only left my black bra on, pulling the gown over my head.
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Luckily, it wasn't one of those gowns that left your entire fucking backside exposed so I felt a lot better.
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I let out a nervous breath, sitting down on the exam chair, the paper crinkling underneath as I announced that I was ready.
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Then the door slowly opened, Dr. Rashad poking her head in to ensure I was good.
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"Do you prefer being alone throughout the exam?" Dr. Rashad asked me, stepping into the room fully.
I pursed my lips, "Yeah," I whispered.
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Until I realized it would be me and another stranger looking... at me.
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"Actually uh no" I quickly said, determining it might be better with Nine in here with me.
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It would feel weird either way, but this way just felt a little bit better.
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"Nine" Dr. Rashad suddenly called out, opening the door and briefly motioning her head.
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Nine passed by her into the exam room immediately, her brown eyes falling on me in the gown as I sat with my legs crossed tightly together.
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"You don't mind just like... standing beside me right?"
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I hesitantly asked her when she stopped in front of me, unsure if she thought that would be weird.
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"I don't mind at all," Nine didn't hesitate to say, lifting her hand to tuck a few of my curls behind my ear.
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Her touch was featherlight, especially as she drew her hand down from my hair, gently cupping my cheek.
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"She does this for a living," Nine murmured, picking up on my nervousness, "You're safe here, River" she added, her tone lowered with reassurance.
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I nodded once with a deep sigh, focusing on her thumb softly caressing my cheek.
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But it was hard to fully focus on her touch when I could hear Dr. Rashad putting on her latex gloves.
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Until Nine leaned closer to me, causing my stare to drift back to her, "It takes less than a few minutes," she told me, drawing her hand down from my cheek to softly caress the side of my neck.
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"Less than a few minutes," I repeated back in a soft whisper as Dr. Rashad took a seat at the end of the exam chair.
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I glanced down to my lap when I felt Nine's hand brush my thigh covered by the gown, guiding my legs to uncross.
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I relaxed into her touch, letting her shift my leg away from the other one so I could turn around toward Dr. Rashad.
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Nine reclined the exam chair for me a little as I hesitantly placed my feet in the holders.
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Then I was entirely exposed to her-someone I had just met minutes ago.
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"Alright, River" she said, her tone calm and professional, "I'm going to start the exam now. Just try to relax."
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Easier said than done.
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I nodded stiffly against my thoughts, my grip tightening on the thin paper covering the chair.
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That's when I felt Nine's hand on my shoulder, firm but grounding, "Relax," she calmly said, her stare purely focused on me.
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I forced my shoulders to drop slightly, exhaling through my nose.
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Dr. Rashad reached for a bottle of lubricant, "I'm going to start with an external exam, just to check for anything abnormal," she informed me, earning another stiff nod from me.
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The moment her fingers made contact, I tensed again.
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She pressed lightly along my sensitive skin, making me grow more tense.
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Then she traced along the inner thighs, checking for any signs of discomfort or irregularities.
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I kept my gaze locked forward on the wall, counting the long seconds in my head.
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Nine's stare seemed to shift from me to Dr. Rashad, openly analyzing her as she touched my most sensitive area.
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Dr. Rashad reached for a speculum next, applying more lubricant before glancing up, "This may be a little cold, but it'll only take a moment," she assured me, earning a short nod from me.
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The cool metal pressed against me as she inserted it carefully-slightly stretching me with an unfamiliar discomfort, but it wasn't anything unbearable.
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"I'm just taking a look at your cervix," Dr. Rashad made sure to inform me, adjusting the speculum as I tried my best not to grow even tenser.
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The seconds felt like minutes as I stared strictly forward, focusing on Nine's hand that gently caressed my shoulder.
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Dr. Rashad gently withdrew the speculum, reaching for a tissue to wipe away the excess lubricant.
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Once she withdrew her gloved fingers, I immediately let out the deep breath I was unconsciously holding.
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Fuck that was so weird.
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"Everything looks good," Dr. Rashad said, stripping off her gloves and tossing them in the bin.
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I relaxed against the chair fully, pressing my legs together again as I pulled the gown down over my thighs.
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Nine let go of my shoulder-but I could still feel the weight of her presence beside me.
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"You can get dressed now," Dr. Rashad politely told me, excusing herself from the room.
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I let out a deep breath, laying up from the chair as Nine extended her hand to me.
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I placed my hand in hers, allowing her to help me down from the chair.
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"You did really good, River" she said as I walked over to my folded clothes.
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"That was the worst thing I've ever done," I said, being entirely honest, "I think I deserve another lollipop," I subtly added, pulling my underwear and leggings on underneath the gown I still wore.
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But I probably could've gotten entirely undressed right there given Nine's stare didn't glance away from my face once.
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"I'll stop on the way," she didn't hesitate to say as I tugged the gown over my head, leaving me in my black bra and leggings.
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Yet her gaze still remained on my face.
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It made me feel better about changing, I guess, but I kind of wanted her to look at me.
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I don't know.
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"Okay, I think I want the watermelon flavor," I said with a growing smile as I slipped my jacket on, zipping it up, "Or maybe the strawberry again since it was pretty good."
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"I'll get you both," Nine determined as I put my shoes back on.
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I hummed, "Yeah, I think I deserve both," I determined, clearly joking with her.
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"You deserve an entire bag," she emphasized, earning a soft laugh from me.
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"I don't need an entire bag," I quickly said, knowing it wasn't necessary.
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Nine only shook her head, "Of course you don't need it," she said as I walked over to her, "I'm stating that you deserve it, River."
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I pursed my lips when my smile threatened to grow obnoxiously wide, nodding once at her genuine words.
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"Okay," I murmured, deciding to just let her get it for me.
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Nine opened the door for me, letting me walk through first before she followed behind me.
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Her heels clicked sharply against the floor as we walked out, saying a brief goodbye to Dr. Rashad as we headed down to the parking garage.
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My nerves were suddenly back in full force as we settled in her car a few minutes later, suddenly thinking about everything that would come next.
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Just as Nine claimed, she stopped at a store on the way, parallel parking the car before going inside to grab the lollipops I requested.
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The bag she came out with was decently big, probably with enough lollipops to last me a couple of weeks.
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I felt entirely content as the bag rested on my lap, already planning to have one later once I got settled at her place.
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I furrowed my brows, noticing she turned into the hotel parking garage.
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Then the realization dawned on me—she's not taking me to her place.
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We're staying at a hotel instead?
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I pursed my lips together as I watched her park the car, weirdly feeling disappointed that we were at a hotel rather than her house.
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I mean, it's not that big of a deal—this is literally just a hookup situation.
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I really don't care about going to her place.
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Genuinely.
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If anything this is probably better, I don't want to risk messing up her freakishly neat house anyway.
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"What is it?" Nine suddenly asked me, causing me to immediately glance over and meet her stare.
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I un-pursed my lips, realizing my thoughts were showing on my face.
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"Nothing," I murmured, unbuckling my seatbelt.
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But I just couldn't fight the urge to speak my mind as I always fucking do.
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"Just wondering why we're at a hotel instead of your place," I subtly added, shrugging to myself as if I were nonchalant about it.
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I mean, I am.
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I definitely am.
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"I don't rush things, Rver," Nine clarified, her stare holding mine, "I prefer to take my time."
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I lazily raised my brows, not feeling entirely satisfied by her answer.
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But I just decided to let it go and drop the topic.
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"I don't care either way," I determined, picking up the bag of lollipops from my lap, "It's just us hooking up anyways," I added, reaching for the door handle.
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Until I felt her hand on my shoulder, firmly pulling me back against the seat.
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"This is not just us hooking up," Nine calmly clarified, "I'm taking you to dinner tomorrow, you will stay at my house down the line, and if I find out you're continuing hookups with anyone else there will be a very big issue here."
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I clenched my jaw, staring ahead as I purposely remained silent.
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Suddenly, it felt like I was a child who got in trouble for saying the wrong thing.
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I guess this isn't just about hooking up or giving her control.
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I knew it was exclusive—I just assumed we would be exclusively hooking up, I don't know.
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"Have I made myself clear, River?" Nine asked me, her brown eyes burning into the side of my face.
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I reluctantly nodded once, "Yep," I mumbled, still staring forward as she let go of my shoulder.
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But only to slide her smooth fingers underneath my chin, guiding my head to turn until I met her stare.
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"Have I made myself clear?" she repeated her question, not once glancing away from my eyes.
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Suddenly the air felt tense between us, a warmth burning down my body as I tried not to glance away from her.
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"Yesp I said, my voice lowered between us.
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Nine nodded once in approval, "Good" she said, releasing my chin to open her door.
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I reached for my door handle as well, holding the bag of lollipops in my arm as I slid out of the car.
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"Were you involved with anyone prior to this?"
Nine asked me as she rounded the car, "I want to know what your past looks like."
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I shook my head, "Not really, I normally just do the usual hookups," I briefly explained, knowing I've never been serious with anyone.
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Nine hummed as she walked past me to the backseat, "And you've never hooked up with someone multiple times, River?" she asked me, opening the door to grab my duffle bag, and the other Bottega duffle bag, which must be hers.
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I pursed my lips, thinking about Kai.
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But there's no fucking way I would tell her that.
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She already doesn't like her.
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"No," I suddenly responded, watching as she closed the back door and walked over to me with the duffel bags in hand.
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"Good," she determined as I followed her to the elevator.
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My lower stomach grew with knots as she briefly clicked the button, holding the duffle bags in one hand as she motioned me on the elevator first.
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Everything was officially real.
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This was real.
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And I knew it would be an entirely different experience than that night in her car.
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